These are much-needed reforms and it's a pity the Tory-led Government has taken two-and-a-half years to move forward the hard work begun under the last Labour government.

We need to see the Government bring forward legislation quickly and, provided it addresses our concerns, we will work constructively to help make it happen.

At a time of great hardship for so many families, the last thing they need to fear is the knock at the door from an unscrupulous bailiff, whose actions do so much to damage the reputation of those striving to keep up the standards of the rest of the profession."

Under new laws to be introduced next year, aggressive bailiffs could face being barred from the industry.

Justice Minister Helen Grant said:

Too many people in debt have had the additional stress of dealing with aggressive bailiffs who often charge extortionate fees.

These new laws will clean up the industry and ensure bailiffs play by the rules or face being prevented from practising. They will also make sure businesses and public bodies can collect their debts fairly.